Scanner to speed up GP visits

Fingerprint scans are being introduced in GP practices for the first time.

Four surgeries in London are the first to bring in the technology, which is designed to take pressure off receptionists and give patients more information.

The new system, PAERS (Patient Access to Electronic Medical Records), has been tested at the Wells Park surgery in Sydenham for the past nine months. Dr Brian Fisher, a partner in the practice, said: "This technology is a major leap forward for both patients and clinicians.

"High-profile cases such as the Shipman affair have highlighted how important it is for healthcare professionals and patients to share information. It helps build trust and allows patients to become better informed."

About 1,500 patients at the surgery have registered their fingerprints by pressing onto a mouse with a clear screen on the top. After three presses, the machine learns to recognise the print and match it to the patient.

Each time the patient returns they can check in by placing their finger on the screen, which reminds them of their appointment and tells them how long they will be waiting. It also informs the doctor which patients have arrived.

It means patients do not queue to see the receptionist and while they wait can look through their medical records at a private kiosk using a touch screen. There is extra information about medical terms and patients can correct personal details, pick up test results and check vaccination programmes.

It is hoped the technology will

eventually let patients book hospital appointments, order repeat prescriptions and learn about their treatment.

Developments are under way to allow patients to burn their own encrypted CD to take with them. It will mean they have records of any conditions, allergies and medication in case of an emergency while on holiday, for example.

In recent trials, about three quarters of patients said having access to their records boosted confidence in their doctor.

Dr Fisher said the system was more secure than sending patients letters because 10 to 15 per cent of personal data is incorrect, such as old addresses.

He said: "It is perfectly secure, you can't hack in and get fingerprints. People are very keen on it.

"Sometimes it saves us time because patients have read their notes but other times they have questions. But it means we have a more constructive conversation."

GP surgeries at Tower Hamlets, Lewisham and Sydenham Green also installed the system this month.